Differences between the profiles of institutionalized elderly people and those on waiting lists and who do not want to be institutionalized

Abstract

Objective To identify the demographic, environmental, economic, functional, and health characteristics and the lifestyle habits of elderly persons considering their degree of institutionalization. Method A cross-sectional observational study was carried out of individuals in long-term care institutions for the elderly (resident group) in João Pessoa in the state of Paraíba, those on the waiting list (waiting list group) for such institutions, and those who did not demonstrate interest in being institutionalized (non-waiting list group). Fifty elderly persons per group were interviewed, paired by sex, age and education level. Results The non-waiting list group had a higher proportion of married individuals (p<0.0001), mean number of children (p=0.0068), number of homeowners (p=0.0060) and less difficulty going out, with a higher frequency of activities. The waiting list group presented a higher proportion of individuals living alone (p=0.0089), and a lower frequency and more difficulty going out. There was no significant difference in the functional capacity of the three groups (p=0.2019). Conclusion There were differences among the three groups; however, the waiting list group had much more similar characteristics to the resident group than the non-waiting list group. Elderly persons on waiting lists to be institutionalized represent a neglected social group both in terms of research and public policies.